Head of Human Resources - Switzerland

WSP is the world's leading engineering company, specialising in infrastructure, transport, environment, energy and buildings.

We have a clear vision of how it wants to help make the world a better place, by giving back to communities and supporting what's really important for our future.

The Country Head of HR – Switzerland plays a pivotal role in leading and evolving HR operations, ensuring the seamless integration of process improvements, operational efficiencies, and strategic workforce initiatives.

This role is responsible for optimising HR processes, driving efficiency in HR service delivery, and aligning operations with regional and global HR strategies. A strong emphasis is placed on collaboration with the Central Europe region and the broader HR WSP team, ensuring consistency and best practice sharing.

Additionally, this role demands strong leadership in coaching and developing a team of:

• HR Operations (3 team members)
• HR Business Partners (3 team members)
• Talent Acquisition Experts (3) (in partnership with the Central Europe Head of Talent)
• Learning Coordinator (1) (in conjunction with the Central Europe Head of Learning)

The role reports to the Head of HR Western Europe.

YOUR NEW ROLE, WHATS INVOLVED?

1. HR Operations & Process Improvement

• Streamline and standardise HR processes in Switzerland, aligning with global/regional models.
• Implement automation and digital HR solutions to enhance efficiency in recruitment, performance management, and learning.
• Prepare for enterprise system go-live, ensuring HR teams are trained and processes are optimized.
• Develop workforce analytics for data-driven decisions on headcount, turnover, and talent mobility.
• Maintain compliance with Swiss and regional labor laws through updated policies and processes.

2. Regional & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Western & Central Europe HR leaders to ensure consistency in Talent Acquisition, Learning, and People Analytics.
• Contribute to regional HR projects supporting business objectives across multiple locations.
• Work with HR teams to implement skills-based workforce planning and employee development.
• Embed data-driven, employee-focused HR practices into daily operations.

3. Talent Strategy & Workforce Development

• Co-lead Talent Acquisition strategy, aligning hiring with business and skills needs.
• Support & coach a team of 3 Talent Acquisition experts and 1 Learning Coordinator.
• Collaborate on upskilling and development programs using digital learning tools.
• Strengthen internal mobility by aligning with learning pathways and succession planning.

4. Change Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness

• Drive change management as HR operations integrate into regional/global models.
• Advise leadership on new ways of working, improving employee experience.
• Foster a high-performance culture with structured feedback and coaching.

5. Leadership & Team Development

• Lead & develop a team of 3 HR Operations and 3 HR Business Partners.
• Build a collaborative, agile HR team aligned with WSP’s regional strategy.
• Enhance recruitment & learning through coaching plans and best practices.
• Encourage internal job rotations and cross-functional HR expertise.

WHAT IF IT WAS YOU?

The ideal candidate holds a master’s or bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent Swiss qualifications and experience. They should have expertise in HR transformation, process optimization, and change management, with M&A due diligence experience as a plus. Strong knowledge of Swiss labor law, pensions, and insurance is essential, ideally within a regional or global HR framework. A data-driven approach, proficiency in HR analytics and HRIS systems, and strong stakeholder management skills are key. Fluency in French and advanced English is required, with German fluency as an advantage.

Key competencies include HR process optimization, strategic workforce planning, and talent development. The candidate should excel in leveraging HR analytics for decision-making, leading change management, and driving organizational transformation. Strong cross-regional collaboration and stakeholder management are essential, along with coaching and mentoring capabilities to develop HR teams effectively.

WHAT YOU’LL LIKE ABOUT US:

• A working environment inspired by diversity, driven by inclusion.
• Our flexible working policy - We recognise the importance of work-life balance and encourage you to find yours.
• WSP is about making the world around us a better place, including the environment, transport infrastructure, buildings and land use.
• Excellent career prospects. We're growing fast, and every day we strive to outdo ourselves. We are open to your ideas and want to try new things. We have a supportive environment that invests in your development and training.
• WSP is about embracing a culture of collaboration with colleagues who stand out for their skills. Come and discover our fantastic team!

OUR RECRUITMENT PROCESS:

1. Telephone interview: We'll start with a telephone interview to get to know you better and discuss your experience.

2. HR/Manager Interview: You will meet with our TA team and the department manager to assess your technical and cultural skills.

3. Interview with the Head of HR Western Europe at WSP/Chief Operating Office:A meeting to discuss your potential role and our strategic vision.

4. Interview withChief Human Resources Officer, EMEIA

ABOUT US:

We are one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Our trusted employees share a common goal of making a positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity and inclusion.

Are you hesitating to apply? Go for it! We are proud to promote diversity, equal opportunities and professional integration within our teams, and we are convinced that our differences and an inclusive working environment contribute to our development. All applications will be carefully considered.

#WeAreWSP

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